U.S. patent application number 13/749120 was filed with the patent office on 2013-07-11 for capacitive wire sensing for furniture.
This patent application is currently assigned to L & P PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY. The applicant listed for this patent is L & P PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY. Invention is credited to SAM CASSELL, RYAN EDWARD CHACON, AVINASH MADADI, WILLIAM ROHR.
Application Number | 20130174343 13/749120 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48742856 |
Filed Date | 2013-07-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130174343 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CHACON; RYAN EDWARD ; et
al. |
July 11, 2013 |
CAPACITIVE WIRE SENSING FOR FURNITURE
Abstract
A system and method for incorporating presence-sensing
technology into furniture is provided. More particularly, the
invention relates to detecting presence using a metal, adjustable
bed frame. The bed frame is pulsed with a voltage to provide a
charge, against which capacitance is measured. A controller
determines the corresponding response based on presence detection
by the frame. Conductive bushings may also be used to measure
capacitance using the bed frame. In further embodiments,
capacitance is measured by a foil tape surrounding a perimeter of
the adjustable bed. The foil tape has a voltage based on proximity
of an object to the tape, and may be embedded with a capacitive
wire. A processor receives information regarding changes in
capacitance and determines when a change in voltage satisfies a
threshold. Based on a determination of presence, or lack of
presence, a variety of corresponding features of the adjustable bed
may be activated.
Inventors: |
CHACON; RYAN EDWARD;
(Carthage, MO) ; MADADI; AVINASH; (Webb City,
MO) ; ROHR; WILLIAM; (Joplin, MO) ; CASSELL;
SAM; (Chetopa, KS) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
L & P PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY; |
South Gate |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
L & P PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
COMPANY
South Gate
CA
|
Family ID: |
48742856 |
Appl. No.: |
13/749120 |
Filed: |
January 24, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13346386 |
Jan 9, 2012 |
|
|
|
13749120 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
5/613 ;
324/679 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 20/08 20130101;
H03K 2217/96078 20130101; H03K 2017/9602 20130101; A47C 21/00
20130101; H03K 17/955 20130101; A47C 20/041 20130101; G01V 3/088
20130101; G01B 7/003 20130101; G01R 27/2605 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
5/613 ;
324/679 |
International
Class: |
G01B 7/00 20060101
G01B007/00; A47C 21/00 20060101 A47C021/00 |
Claims
1. An adjustable bed, comprising: a mattress support that comprises
a plurality of support panels, at least one of said support panels
movable relative to the other ones of said support panels to
thereby adjust the bed; a mattress resting on top of the mattress
support, said mattress having a covering material disposed over at
least a top surface of the mattress; at least one capacitive
component coupled to the bed, wherein the at least one capacitive
component is adapted to have a voltage based on proximity of an
object to the at least one capacitive component, and further
wherein the at least one capacitive component comprises a metal
frame associated with the adjustable bed; and a processor coupled
to the at least one capacitive component, the processor adapted to
receive information provided by the at least one capacitive
component and to determine that a change in voltage satisfies a
threshold.
2. The bed of claim 1, wherein the metal frame is coupled to the
processor with at least one coaxial cable.
3. The bed of claim 2, wherein the processor receives information
directly from the at least one capacitive component.
4. The bed of claim 1, wherein receiving information provided by
the at least one capacitive component comprises pulsing the metal
frame with a voltage to provide a charge to the metal frame.
5. The bed of claim 4, wherein an analog to digital (ADC) converter
is used to measure how the charge of the metal frame changes over
time.
6. The bed of claim 1, wherein determining that a change in voltage
satisfies a threshold comprises: monitoring a change in voltage
detected by the at least one capacitive component over a particular
period of time; and comparing the change in voltage over the period
of time with the threshold.
7. The bed of claim 6, wherein, based on determining that a change
in voltage satisfies a threshold, the processor is adapted to
discontinue motion of the adjustable bed until it is determined
that a change in voltage no longer satisfies the threshold.
8. The bed of claim 6, wherein, based on determining that a change
in voltage satisfies a threshold, the processor is adapted to
discontinue motion of the adjustable bed until it is determined
that an indication to initiate motion is received.
9. A method for detecting presence with respect to an item of
furniture, the method comprising: receiving information provided by
at least one capacitive component coupled to the an item of
furniture, wherein the at least one capacitive component comprises
a metal frame associated with the item of furniture, wherein
receiving information comprises pulsing the metal frame of the item
of furniture with a voltage to provide a charge to the metal frame,
and further wherein the at least one capacitive component is
adapted to have a voltage based on proximity of an object to the at
least one capacitive component; and determining that a change in
voltage satisfies a threshold, wherein determining that a change in
voltage satisfies a threshold comprises: (1) monitoring a change in
voltage detected by the at least one capacitive component over a
particular period of time; and (2) comparing the change in voltage
over the period of time with the threshold.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the metal frame comprises at
least one conductive bushing coupled to the metal frame, said at
least one conductive bushing adapted to capacitively couple two or
more metal components of the metal frame.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein the at least one conductive
bushing comprises at least one material adapted to transfer energy
between the two or more metal components, wherein the at least one
material comprises one or more of stainless steel, carbon fiber,
carbon black, carbon powder, and graphite.
12. The method of claim 10, wherein the at least one conductive
bushing comprises at least one plastic bushing having one or more
of a chemical additive that increases conductivity and a chemical
coating that increases conductivity.
13. The method of claim 10, wherein the at least one conductive
bushing comprises at least one metal coating associated with the at
least one conductive bushing, wherein the at least one metal
coating is applied to one or more of an outside surface of the at
least one conductive bushing and an interior surface of the at
least one conductive bushing.
14. A method for detecting presence with respect to an adjustable
bed, the method comprising: receiving information provided by at
least one capacitive component coupled to a perimeter of the
adjustable bed, wherein the at least one capacitive component is
adapted to have a voltage based on proximity of an object to the at
least one capacitive component, and further wherein the at least
one capacitive component comprises a foil tape; determining that a
change in voltage satisfies a threshold amount; and based on
determining that the threshold amount is satisfied, initiating a
corresponding response.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the foil tape is coupled to at
least one surface of the adjustable bed, wherein the at least one
surface comprises one or more of a fabric, a mattress, a frame
surrounding a metal adjustable bed frame, a metal adjustable bed
frame, and a support panel.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the foil tape is coupled to at
least one edge of the at least one surface of the adjustable
bed.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein at least one additional
capacitive material is coupled to the at least one surface of the
adjustable bed by an adhesive surface of the foil tape, such that
the at least one additional capacitive material is secured between
the surface of the adjustable bed and the foil tape.
18. The method of claim 14, wherein the adjustable bed comprises a
mattress support that comprises a plurality of support panels, at
least one of said support panels movable relative to the other ones
of said support panels to thereby adjust the adjustable bed,
wherein the at least one capacitive component is directly coupled
to a perimeter one or more of the following: at least a portion of
a top of at least one of the plurality of support panels; and at
least a portion of a bottom of at least one of the plurality of
support panels.
19. The method of claim 14, wherein the foil tape comprises a
thin-gauge foil tape, and further wherein the foil tape is embedded
with a conductive material.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the foil tape is embedded with
a capacitive wire.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
Nonprovisional application Ser. No. 13/346,386, filed Jan. 9, 2012,
entitled "Capacitive Wire Sensing for Furniture," which is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0003] The present invention generally relates to presence-sensing
technology incorporated into furniture. More particularly, the
invention relates to incorporating a conductive medium into the
periphery of a furniture item, such as a bed, for detecting the
presence of a user or other body.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] A variety of features may be integrated into automated
furniture items, including those designed to raise, lower, and
generally conform to the comfort specifications of a user. Such
automation may also include enhanced features that detect the
presence of a person or other body, and elicit the corresponding
automated response, such as stopping bed articulation or operating
lighting in response to presence detection. For example,
presence-sensing technology may be used to stop bed articulation to
prevent an unintentional "pinch point," if the automated bedding
system would otherwise be unaware of a person's presence.
[0005] Traditional presence-sensing technology for automated
bedding systems utilize sensing or switches routed around the
perimeter of a mattress. However, such switches can be expensive or
impractical from a manufacturing standpoint. For example,
presence-sensing switches may shift or bend during bed
articulation, causing inaccurate readings and misplacement of the
sensors. In applying upholstery to furniture items, a switch may
already be compressed if the upholstery is pulled too tight.
Pressure pads and switches may also be problematic in presence
detection when a switch fails to be triggered by a person's
presence. Alternatively, the same switches may be too sensitive,
and activate independently from a body's presence. Additional
analog components are required for presence detection in
traditional technologies, using sensors/oscillators in addition to
a circuit that detects a change.
[0006] Accordingly, a need exists for a reliable presence-sensing
technology for use with furniture, such as an automated bedding
system, which addresses the foregoing and other problems.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention generally relates to an apparatus for
presence detection that incorporates a capacitive component into
furniture items, including automated bedding systems. It should be
understood that the invention contemplates incorporating a
capacitive component, such as a capacitive wire, into a variety of
furniture items, both bedding and otherwise, and that the invention
is not limited to the specific item for which presence detection is
provided. Additionally, the present invention is described as
detecting/sensing presence of a person or other being using
exemplary components such as a capacitive component, capacitive
wire, segments of a capacitive wire, and a processor. Although a
final determination of presence may be conducted using a processor
and/or software associated with the claimed apparatus, reference to
sensing and/or detection "by" the capacitive component, or a
determination thereof by the processor, is not meant to be
limiting. For example, a conductive signal detected by capacitive
wires may be processed by software associated with a processor in a
control enclosure, and such processing may result in a final
determination of presence. In other words, a conductive wire could
be described as having "detected" presence, even though the
detection determination was ultimately made in software associated
with a processor.
[0008] In one embodiment, a capacitive component is secured around
the perimeter of a platform of an adjustable bed. For example, a
capacitive wire may be secured to a perimeter of a top and bottom
surface of a platform of an adjustable bed. In another embodiment,
a capacitive wire is incorporated inside the tape edge applied to
the perimeter of a mattress cover. In a further embodiment,
capacitive wiring is integrated into the frame supporting an
automated bedding system. A capacitive wire thread may also be
woven into a pattern in a quilted mattress covering, in some
embodiments. In further embodiments, a metal adjustable bed frame
may be pulsed with a charge and used to monitor a change in
capacitance based on contact with the metal frame. Exemplary
embodiments of the invention include a control enclosure coupled to
the capacitive component (such as a capacitive wire/thread/metal
frame) that is associated with a processor that receives
presence-detecting data via the capacitive component. Software
associated with the control enclosure and the capacitive
wires/threads/metal frames may then make a determination of
presence of a body with respect to a bedding system. Based on a
determination of presence, or lack thereof, a corresponding feature
of the automated bedding system may be activated.
[0009] One illustrative embodiment of an adjustable bed comprises a
mattress support that comprises a plurality of support panels. At
least one of the support panels is movable relative to the other
ones of said support panels to thereby adjust the bed. The
adjustable bed further comprises a mattress resting on top of the
mattress support, where the mattress has a covering material
disposed over at least a top surface of the mattress, and at least
one capacitive component coupled to the bed. The capacitive
component is adapted to have a voltage based on the proximity of an
object to the capacitive component. The adjustable bed further
comprises a processor coupled to the capacitive component, and the
processor is adapted to receive information provided by the
capacitive component and to determine that a change in voltage
satisfies a threshold.
[0010] In another illustrative aspect, the present invention
includes a method for detecting presence with respect to a bed. The
method includes receiving information provided by at least one
capacitive component coupled to a perimeter of the bed, wherein the
capacitive component is adapted to have a voltage based on the
proximity of an object to the capacitive component; determining
that a change in voltage satisfies a threshold amount; and based on
determining that the threshold amount is satisfied, initiating a
corresponding response.
[0011] According to a third illustrative aspect, the present
invention includes a bed comprising a mattress having a covering
material disposed over at least a top surface of the mattress, and
a tape edge surrounding a perimeter of the top surface of the
mattress, the tape edge coupled to the covering material. The bed
further comprises at least one capacitive component coupled to at
least a portion of the tape edge, wherein the capacitive component
is adapted to have a voltage based on the proximity of an object to
the capacitive component. The bed still further comprises a
processor coupled to the capacitive component, the processor being
adapted to receive information provided by the capacitive component
and to determine that a change in voltage satisfies a
threshold.
[0012] In a further illustrative embodiment, an adjustable bed
comprises: a mattress support that comprises a plurality of support
panels, at least one of said support panels movable relative to the
other ones of said support panels to thereby adjust the bed; a
mattress resting on top of the mattress support, said mattress
having a covering material disposed over at least a top surface of
the mattress; at least one capacitive component coupled to the bed,
wherein the at least one capacitive component is adapted to have a
voltage based on proximity of an object to the at least one
capacitive component, and further wherein the at least one
capacitive component comprises a metal frame associated with the
adjustable bed; and a processor coupled to the at least one
capacitive component, the processor adapted to receive information
provided by the at least one capacitive component and to determine
that a change in voltage satisfies a threshold.
[0013] In another embodiment, a method for detecting presence with
respect to an adjustable bed comprises: receiving information
provided by at least one capacitive component coupled to the
adjustable bed, wherein the at least one capacitive component
comprises a metal frame associated with the adjustable bed, wherein
receiving information comprises pulsing the metal frame of the
adjustable bed with a voltage to provide a charge to the metal
frame, and further wherein the at least one capacitive component is
adapted to have a voltage based on proximity of an object to the at
least one capacitive component; and determining that a change in
voltage satisfies a threshold, wherein determining that a change in
voltage satisfies a threshold comprises: (1) monitoring a change in
voltage detected by the at least one capacitive component over a
particular period of time; and (2) comparing the change in voltage
over the period of time with the threshold.
[0014] In a final illustrative embodiment, a method for detecting
presence with respect to an adjustable bed comprises: receiving
information provided by at least one capacitive component coupled
to a perimeter of the adjustable bed, wherein the at least one
capacitive component is adapted to have a voltage based on
proximity of an object to the at least one capacitive component,
and further wherein the at least one capacitive component comprises
a foil tape; determining that a change in voltage satisfies a
threshold amount; and based on determining that the threshold
amount is satisfied, initiating a corresponding response.
[0015] Additional objects, advantages, and novel features of the
invention will be set forth in part in the description which
follows, and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the
art upon examination of the following, or may be learned by
practice of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
[0016] The present invention is described in detail below with
reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein:
[0017] FIG. 1 is a top view of a capacitive wire coupled to the
panels of an automated bed platform, in accordance with embodiments
of the invention;
[0018] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the automated bed platform of
FIG. 1, with a capacitive wire and a control enclosure coupled to
the panels, in accordance with embodiments of the invention;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a side view of the automated bed platform of FIG.
1, with a capacitive wire coupled to the top and bottom of the
platform, and the control enclosure coupled to the bottom of the
platform, in accordance with embodiments of the invention;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an automated bed with a
portion of the mattress cut away to reveal the capacitive wire
coupled to the top of the platform, in accordance with embodiments
of the invention;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the automated bed of FIG. 4,
with the mattress cut away to reveal the capacitive wire coupled to
the top of the platform, and hidden lines indicating the capacitive
wire and control enclosure coupled to the bottom of the platform,
in accordance with embodiments of the invention;
[0022] FIG. 6 is an enlarged, perspective view of the automated bed
of FIG. 5, with a capacitive wire coupled to the top of the
platform and hidden lines indicating the capacitive wire and
control enclosure coupled to the bottom of the platform, in
accordance with embodiments of the invention;
[0023] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an automated bed with a
capacitive wire incorporated into the tape edge of the mattress
cover, in accordance with embodiments of the invention;
[0024] FIG. 8 is a side view of a capacitive wire coupled to a
control enclosure and an inner spring of a mattress, in accordance
with embodiments of the invention;
[0025] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method of detecting
presence with respect to a bed, in accordance with embodiments of
the invention;
[0026] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method of
detecting presence with respect to a bed, in accordance with
embodiments of the invention;
[0027] FIG. 11 is a side view of foil tape and capacitive wire for
application to a substrate, in accordance with embodiments of the
invention;
[0028] FIG. 12 is a side view of foil tape having an embedded
capacitive wire for application to a substrate; in accordance with
embodiments of the invention;
[0029] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a foil tape having an
embedded capacitive wire, applied to an edge of a substrate, in
accordance with embodiments of the invention;
[0030] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a foil tape applied to an
edge of a substrate, in accordance with embodiments of the
invention;
[0031] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a foil tape applied to
multiple edges of a substrate, in accordance with embodiments of
the invention;
[0032] FIG. 16 is a rear perspective view of an adjustable bed, in
accordance with embodiments of the invention;
[0033] FIG. 17A is a conductive bushing, in accordance with
embodiments of the invention;
[0034] FIG. 17B is a conductive encapsulating torque tube, in
accordance with embodiments of the invention;
[0035] FIG. 17C is a conductive bushing, in accordance with
embodiments of the invention;
[0036] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an automated bed with head
and feet portions of the bed raised to partially reveal a metal,
adjustable bed frame, and a portion of the mattress cut away to
reveal capacitive wire coupled to the top of the platform, in
accordance with embodiments of the invention;
[0037] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the automated bed of FIG.
18, with head and feet portions of the bed raised to partially
reveal a metal, adjustable bed frame, and with the mattress cut
away to reveal a capacitive wire coupled to the top of the platform
and hidden lines indicating the capacitive wire and control
enclosure coupled to the bottom of the platform, in accordance with
embodiments of the invention;
[0038] FIG. 20 is an enlarged, perspective view of the automated
bed of FIG. 19, with head and feet portions of the bed raised to
partially reveal a metal, adjustable bed frame, and with a
capacitive wire coupled to the top of the platform and hidden lines
indicating the capacitive wire and control enclosure coupled to the
bottom of the platform, in accordance with embodiments of the
invention;
[0039] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an automated bed with head
and feet portions of the bed raised to partially reveal a metal,
adjustable bed frame, and a tape edge surrounding a perimeter of
the mattress cover, in accordance with embodiments of the
invention;
[0040] FIG. 22 is an exemplary graphical display of the measure of
head wire sense detection and foot wire sense detection associated
with an adjustable bed, using capacitance monitoring, in accordance
with embodiments of the invention;
[0041] FIG. 23 is an exemplary graphical display of the measure of
contact detection with a metal, adjustable bed frame using
capacitance monitoring, in accordance with embodiments of the
invention; and
[0042] FIG. 24 is an exemplary graphical display of the measure of
the rate of change of monitored capacitance during lowering of the
head portion and foot portion of a metal, adjustable bed frame, in
accordance with embodiments of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0043] An embodiment of an automated bedding system 10 with
capacitive wire sensing is seen in FIGS. 1-6. Referring first to
FIG. 1, a top view of the platform of the automated bedding system
10 includes a plurality of panels 12 having a first end 14 and a
second end 16, a control enclosure 18 (mounted below the panels
12), a first segment 20 of a capacitive wire, and a second segment
22 of a capacitive wire. In some embodiments, the first end 14 may
be referred to as the "head" of the bed, while the second end 16
may be referred to as the "foot" of the bed.
[0044] When viewed from the top in FIG. 1, capacitive wiring is
generally arranged near the first end 14 of the automated bedding
system 10. A capacitive component, such as a capacitive wire, is
adapted to have a voltage based on proximity of an object to the
capacitive component. In some embodiments, the capacitive wire
segments are standard conductive copper wires. The capacitance
measured across such wires may be monitored by a processor that
uses software to generate a determination of presence detection. In
one embodiment, the Microchip.RTM. brand capacitive sensor may be
used to determine when presence is detected. As such, while
presence detection relies on the juxtaposition of a person or body
with respect to the capacitive wiring, a determination of the level
of detection or the measurement of presence is conducted digitally,
in software associated with the processor.
[0045] As shown in FIG. 1, the capacitive wiring first and second
segments 20 and 22 are coupled to the control enclosure 18, which
is mounted below the panels 12 of the bedding system 10. In some
embodiments, first and second segments 20 and 22 are made from a
single capacitive wire, while in other embodiments, two separate
capacitive wire segments 20 and 22 are coupled to the control
enclosure 18. As will be understood, additional capacitive
components, such as capacitive wire segments, may be coupled to the
control enclosure 18, and arranged on the top of the plurality of
panels 12. For example, additional capacitive wires arranged
perpendicular to each other may be coupled to the control enclosure
18. In further embodiments, first and second segments 20 and 22 are
made from a capacitive material other than wire.
[0046] Capacitive wire segments 20 and 22 may be used to detect
presence or absence of a person or other being on top of the
automated bedding system 10. For example, as arranged near first
end 14 of the automated bedding system 10, the torso of a person
positioned on the top of the automated bedding system 10 may be
detected by capacitive wire segments 20 and 22. In embodiments,
capacitive wire segments 20 and 22 create a defined sensing area on
the top half of the head of the bedding system 10, and are less
susceptible to noise interference from articulation of the rest of
the automated bedding system 10.
[0047] Referring next to FIG. 2, a bottom view of the platform of
the automated bedding system 10 includes the plurality of panels 12
having a first end 14 and a second end 16, a control enclosure 18,
and a third segment 24 of capacitive wire. As shown in FIG. 2, the
capacitive wiring third segment 24 is coupled to the control
enclosure 18, which is mounted below the panels 12. In further
embodiments, the control enclosure may be mounted in a different
location on the bedding system 10, or may be external to the
bedding system 10.
[0048] In some embodiments, third segment 24 is made from a single
capacitive wire, while in other embodiments, multiple capacitive
wire segments are coupled to the control enclosure 18. As will be
understood, additional capacitive components, such as capacitive
wire segments, may be coupled to the control enclosure 18, and
arranged on the bottom of the plurality of panels 12. For example,
additional capacitive wires arranged perpendicular to each other
may be coupled to the control enclosure 18. In further embodiments,
third segment 24 is made from a capacitive material other than
wire.
[0049] Capacitive wire segment 24 may be used to detect presence or
absence of a person or other being below the automated bedding
system 10. For example, as arranged around the perimeter of the bed
at both the first and second ends 14 and 16, a person or other body
underneath the automated bedding system 10 may be detected by
capacitive wire segment 24. In embodiments, based on detecting
presence underneath the bedding system 10, bed articulation may be
stopped. As viewed from the side in FIG. 3, the first and second
segments 20 and 22 (hidden from view) create a defined sensing area
on the top of the platform, near the first end 14, while the third
segment 24 creates a defined sensing area on the bottom of the
platform of the bedding system 10.
[0050] Referring next to FIG. 4, an adjustable bed 26 incorporates
the automated bedding system 10 described with respect to FIGS.
1-3. The adjustable bed 26 includes a mattress 28 and a frame 30. A
top portion of the mattress is cut away to reveal the first end 14
of the automated bedding system 10 platform, with the head of the
bed partially raised. As described with reference to FIG. 1,
capacitive wire segments 20 and 22 provide a defined sensing area
near the first end 14, which detects a change in capacitance above
the bed, such as the capacitance detected from a person resting on
the bed.
[0051] FIG. 5 depicts the adjustable bed 26 from FIG. 4, with a
majority of the mattress 28 removed. As can be seen on the
plurality of panels 12, first and second segments 20 and 22 of
capacitive wire detect presence above the platform (e.g. on top of
the mattress), while the third segment 24 detects presence below
the platform (e.g. under the bed). An enlarged view of FIG. 5 is
shown in FIG. 6, with hidden lines depicting capacitive wires 20
and 24 coupled to the control enclosure 18, which is mounted
beneath the panels 12.
[0052] In some embodiments, in alternative or in addition to
positioning of capacitive wiring around the perimeter of the panels
12 that support an adjustable mattress, conductive wire is attached
around the perimeter of the mattress itself. As shown in the
adjustable bed 32 of FIG. 7, conductive wire may be incorporated
into the tape edge surrounding the mattress 28. As such, the
attached conductive wire may work as a sensor to detect presence of
a person or other body near the perimeter of the mattress 28. For
example, a conductive wire may be incorporated into the top tape
edge 34 around the top surface of the mattress 28. In another
example, a conductive wire may be incorporated into the bottom tape
edge 36 around the bottom surface of the mattress 28. During
manufacturing, a conductive wire may be inserted into the tape edge
automatically, as the tape edge is applied to a mattress covering.
In some embodiments, when routed through the tape edge perimeter,
the sensitivity of the conductive wire may be adjusted in software
associated with a processor used to determine presence
detection.
[0053] The capacitive wire may be routed through some or all of the
tape edge around the perimeter of a mattress 28. Additionally, a
tape edge may be applied to both the top and bottom edges of the
mattress 28, and both the top and bottom tape edges 34 and 36 may
include a capacitive wire. Accordingly, the sensitivity of the
capacitive wire in the top tape edge 34 may be adjusted
independently from the tape edge 36 surrounding the perimeter of
the bottom of the mattress. For example, a small change in voltage
detected by the capacitive wires in the top tape edge 34 of the
mattress may indicate that a user has moved on the surface of the
mattress, but is still on the bed. By contrast, a small change in
voltage detected by the capacitive wires in the bottom tape edge 36
of the mattress may indicate that a person, or other being, is
below the bed. In either case, different features associated with
the automated bedding system 10 may be activated based on whether
presence is detected above the bed (via capacitive wires in the top
tape edge 34) or below the bed (via capacitive wires in the bottom
tape edge 36).
[0054] In further embodiments, a capacitive component may be
incorporated into the mattress covering 38 of a mattress 28, as
shown in FIG. 7. In particular, a capacitive thread may be sewn
into the ticking on top of the mattress covering 38, as part of a
sewn pattern. During manufacturing, a particular needle threaded
with capacitive thread may be activated automatically and
independently to incorporate the capacitive wire into a particular
configuration on the surface of the mattress covering 38. For
example, the capacitive thread may be sewn around a perimeter of
the top surface of the mattress 28. In another example, the
capacitive wire may be sewn in a pattern that creates perpendicular
runs for capacitive detection. In one embodiment, capacitive thread
sewn into the surface of a mattress covering 38 may terminate at a
particular point and attach to a control enclosure 18. For example,
an attachment may be used to crimp the mattress covering 38
material during sewing, to provide an attachment point for
connecting the capacitive thread to a processor.
[0055] In some embodiments, a capacitive component may be
incorporated into a platform-style bed. For example, a lower
portion of a bed that does not articulate, such as a box spring or
a mattress frame 30, may include a capacitive component that
detects presence from above. In one embodiment, a capacitive wire
is attached in a loop around the perimeter of the top of the frame
30, in FIG. 7. When a person or body is detected on top of the
platform and/or frame 30, the articulating mattress 28 may
discontinue lowering into contact with the frame 30. In one
embodiment, a capacitive wire may be incorporated into the
upholstery of a decorative surround (immovable frame). The
sensitivity of the capacitive wire may be decreased so that direct
contact is required with the edge of the surround before presence
may be detected, in order to prevent false readings from a body
approaching the frame and/or surround. In one embodiment, a
decorative surround may include a conductive, metalized tape, such
as an aluminum tape, that serves as a capacitive component for
detecting presence with respect to the decorative surround. For
example, a conductive metalized tape may be adhered to a perimeter
of the decorative surround of an adjustable bed to determine
presence near and/or on the bed, based on a change in capacitance
detected by the metalized tape.
[0056] Presence may also be detected using a loop of capacitive
wire incorporated inside a mattress. For example, as shown in FIG.
8, a fourth segment 40 of capacitive wire may be incorporated
inside an inner spring 42, and coupled to the control enclosure 18.
While only one inner spring 42 is shown, it should be understood
that capacitive wire could be incorporated into one or more of the
many innersprings that make up a traditional mattress. As such, the
loop of capacitive wire can detect a person or object in proximity
to the loop, such as a person on the mattress, above the loop of
capacitive wire.
[0057] A defined sensing area is created by routing of a capacitive
wire around a perimeter of a furniture item, in a variety of
configurations such as those described above. For example, a
capacitive wire routed around the perimeter of a mattress, such as
in the tape edge around a perimeter of the top surface of a
mattress, creates a defined sensing area on the area of the
mattress surrounded by the sensing perimeter. As such, a person's
presence within the sensing area may be detected by the capacitive
wire, which a processor may use to determine when a person exits or
enters a bed. A processor coupled to the capacitive component may
be housed in a control enclosure, such as control enclosure 18. In
one embodiment, the control enclosure 18 is mounted below the
platform of an automated bedding system 10. In further embodiments,
the control enclosure 18 is mounted generally beneath the mattress
28.
[0058] In embodiments, capacitive wire incorporated into the
perimeter of a mattress is used to monitor a change in capacitance
over a specified amount of time. The capacitive component
(capacitive wire) is adapted to have a voltage based on proximity
of an object to the capacitive component. Such voltage information
is collected via the capacitive component and received by the
processor, which determines when a change in voltage satisfies a
threshold. Once a particular change in capacitance satisfies a
threshold, a corresponding function associated with the automated
bed may be initiated. In embodiments, a threshold for initiating a
corresponding function includes a particular amount of change in
voltage within a particular amount of time. For example, when using
capacitance information to turn lights on/off, a particular amount
of change in voltage may be required during a particular amount of
time before satisfying the threshold indicating that a person has
exited the bed (and before the lights may be turned on). Similarly,
a particular threshold value of voltage change may be required by
the processor, over a particular amount of time, before making a
determination that a person has re-entered the bed (and before the
lights can be turned off again). In embodiments, a processor
continuously receives capacitance monitoring information, and
monitors how quickly a change in capacitance occurs (how quickly
the delta changes) to determine if a big enough change has occurred
in a certain amount of time to satisfy a threshold, and trigger the
corresponding function.
[0059] Based on satisfying a particular threshold, various features
associated with the automated bedding system 10 may be activated
and/or enabled. For example, an alarm clock may only be triggered
if a person's presence is detected in the bed (i.e. if a threshold
amount of change in voltage is detected during capacitance
monitoring over a particular amount of time). In another example,
additional bedding features may be activated based on presence
detection by capacitive wires. Such additional integrated bedding
features include having a massage motor activated to wake up a
user. If a user is not present in the bed, and therefore not
detected using the capacitive wires, the lack of presence detection
will prevent the massage motor from running at a particular
scheduled time.
[0060] A variety of other functions of the automated bedding system
10 may be controlled based on detection with a capacitive wire. In
other words, a processor coupled to the capacitive wire may
initiate a variety of functions based on received data indicating
presence or lack of presence, as determined using capacitance
information. Different functions may be controlled, such as
stopping a bed from articulating when presence is detected beneath
the bed, turning on/off lights based on a person exiting/entering a
bed, and controlling other accessories or electrical/household
appliances through internal circuitry associated with the
processor. In one example, after presence is no longer detected in
the bed (thereby indicating that a person has exited the bed)
lights may be turned on. Additionally, when the person returns to
the bed, the lights may turn off.
[0061] A variety of communication protocols may be used to control
the variety of functions described above. For example, a two-way
controller using ZigBee.RTM. wireless communication protocol may be
used. In some embodiments, a two-way communication protocol
intended for use in automation (similar to Bluetooth.RTM.) may be
utilized. One embodiment of the invention may be controlled by an
external sensor only, with all of the components necessary for the
sensor that plug into an existing motor. In another embodiment, two
separate microcontrollers may be used: one dedicated primarily for
sensing purposes that, when it detects something, sends a signal to
a secondary device/microcontroller that is programmed to initiate
the corresponding response.
[0062] Turning now to FIG. 9, an exemplary flow diagram 44 depicts
monitoring capacitance and making a determination of presence with
respect to a furniture item. At block 46, an average change in
capacitance is monitored using a capacitive wire. As discussed
above, the change in capacitance indicates a change in voltage over
a particular amount of time. At block 48, a determination is made
regarding whether the capacitance has changed by a threshold
amount. If a determination is made that the capacitance has changed
by a threshold amount (i.e. a particular amount of change in
voltage has occurred within a particular window of time), then an
indication is made that presence has been detected at block 50, and
the corresponding response is initiated at block 52. As will be
understood, blocks 50 and 52 may, in some embodiments, be combined
into a single step of initiation of the corresponding response
based on a determination of presence detection. At block 54, if
capacitance has not changed by a threshold amount, capacitance
monitoring continues.
[0063] With reference next to FIG. 10, an exemplary flow diagram 56
depicts monitoring capacitance and making a determination that
presence is no longer detected with respect to a furniture item. At
block 58, an average change in capacitance is monitored using a
capacitive wire. At block 60, a determination is made whether
capacitance has changed by a threshold amount. At block 62, if
capacitance has changed by a threshold amount, an indication that
presence is no longer detected is made at block 62, and a
corresponding response is initiated at block 64. At block 66, if it
is determined that the threshold amount has not been satisfied,
capacitance monitoring continues.
[0064] Referring now to FIG. 11, an exemplary capacitive sensing
system 68 includes a thin-gauge foil tape 70, a thin-gauge
capacitive wire 72, and a substrate 74. In embodiments, foil tape
70 attaches capacitive wire 72 to a substrate 74, such as a
perimeter of an item of motion furniture or an adjustable bed. FIG.
12 depicts another exemplary capacitive sensing system 76, with a
thin-gauge foil tape 78 having a thin-gauge, capacitive embedded
wire 80, for attaching to a substrate 82. For example, a thin-gauge
foil tape 78 embedded with a capacitive embedded wire 80 may be
held to a substrate 82, such as an adjustable bed. In embodiments,
capacitive wire 72 and/or capacitive embedded wire 80 may be
coupled to substrates 74 and 82 using an adhesive portion of foil
tape 70 and 78. Additionally, foil tapes 70 and 78 may be pressure
sensitive adhesive (PSA) foil tapes, for attaching to substrates 74
and 82. In further embodiments, thin-gauge foil tape 70 and 78 are
used to attach capacitive wire 72 and/or capacitive embedded wire
80, to a substrate. In addition or in alternative to attaching
capacitive wire 72 or capacitive embedded wire 80 using foil tape,
such capacitive wiring systems may be coupled to a substrate using
staples, glue, adhesive, or otherwise fastened to a number of
surfaces to create a capacitive circuit on the adjustable bed or
motion furniture item.
[0065] In the example of FIG. 13, a capacitive sensing system 84
includes a thin-gauge foil tape 86 with an embedded wire 88 coupled
to a substrate 90. In particular, the foil tape 86 is applied to an
inner edge 92 of substrate 90, such as an inner edge of an
adjustable bed frame. In embodiments, foil tape 86 is a PSA tape
that is adapted to adhere to a surface of substrate 90, while
permitting the foil tape 86 (and the embedded wire 88) to maintain
a charge during monitoring of capacitance. For example, foil tape
86 may be coupled to a controller and monitored using a software
application that analyzes changes in capacitance, as detected via
the foil tape 86 and the embedded wire 88. For example, foil tape
86 may be coupled to a controller (such as a microcontroller)
associated with a software application, and used to capacitively
detect mammalian touch in components such as doors, windows,
furniture, or other items of moveable furniture, such as an
adjustable bed. In embodiments, foil tape 86 is capacitive, and is
coupled to the embedded wire 88 that is electrically coupled to the
microcontroller.
[0066] In FIG. 14, a capacitive sensing system 94 includes a
capacitive cap 96 coupled to a substrate 98 along an inner edge
100. In embodiments, substrate 98 may be a frame and/or base of an
adjustable bed, with an inner edge 100, on which capacitive cap 96
is applied and used for capacitive detection. In one embodiment,
capacitive cap 96 is a sensing material, such as a metalized tape,
that is able to detect changes in capacitance, and can be placed
under or on top of fabrics. Similarly, with reference to FIG. 15,
capacitive sensing system 102 depicts a capacitive cap 104 coupled
to the top of substrate 106. In particular, capacitive cap 104 is
applied along inner edge 108 and outer edge 110. In one embodiment,
capacitive cap 104 is a foil and/or metalized tape that can detect
a change in capacitance. In further embodiments, substrate 106 may
be a frame and/or base of an adjustable bed, with the inner edge
108 and outer edge 110, on which capacitive cap 104 may be used to
detect presence based on a change in capacitance detected by the
capacitive cap 104. In some embodiments, capacitive cap 96 and/or
capacitive cap 104 may be a metallic coated plastic trim that can
be used as a sensing material, in addition to or in alternative to
a conductive wire and/or foil tape. In further embodiments,
capacitive caps 96 and 104 may be made from other ferrous or
metallic shapes, such as angles, zees, tees, caps, etc. As such, in
embodiments using foil tape for capacitive detection, additional
metallic materials could be used to provide capacitive detection of
presence with respect to an adjustable bed.
[0067] In embodiments, a thin-gauge perimeter wire may be installed
around a perimeter of an adjustable bed and/or frame of an
adjustable bed. In embodiments, the thin-gauge perimeter wire may
be coupled to the base of an adjustable bed using tape; adhesives;
fasteners; staples; or may be embedded or extruded through foam;
covered in a thin foil tape; or attached via one or more
additional/alternative hardware mechanisms. In one embodiment, the
perimeter wire may be embedded in foil tape prior to application to
the bedding device, as in the example of FIGS. 12-13. In a further
embodiment, the perimeter wire may be connected to a coaxial cable
using sockets, such as using an RCA jack and socket, or a mechanism
such as a Molex.RTM. or an Amp connector.
[0068] In embodiments, the foil tape and the perimeter wire are
capacitively coupled and sensitive to touch. That is, similar to
the capacitive wire segments used to detect presence or absence of
a person or other being on top of an automated bedding system, foil
tape and a perimeter wire coupled to a frame or base of an
adjustable bed may also be capacitively coupled and able to detect
presence or absence based on a detected change in capacitance.
Further, such capacitance detection may be adjusted to a required
amount of sensitivity for presence detection, such as "fine tuning"
the microcontroller and/or software for detection using thicker
upholstery.
[0069] In a further embodiment of the invention, ports, grommets,
and/or sockets are added to an automated bedding mattress
construction to allow connection of a capacitive wire to spring an
assembly, thereby creating a capacitive array internal to the
mattress. As discussed with reference to FIG. 8, capacitive wire
may be incorporated into one or more inner springs of a mattress.
Further, in one example, a perimeter wire coupled to an automated
bed frame may also be coupled to the inner spring of a mattress
assembly to create a capacitive array that detects presence with
relation to both the mattress and the frame. In some embodiments, a
wire mesh, such as netting and/or a screen, may be capacitively
connected to a capacitive sensing system for detection associated
with the same perimeter wire.
[0070] In some embodiments, body capacitance can be used to operate
different types of switches as a capacitive touch sensor will
respond to close-proximity detection of a change in capacitance.
Accordingly, the tip of a finger may be detected by a capacitive
sensor, with a minimal amount of pressure (i.e., triggered without
forceful touching), and the capacitive sensing system of an
automated furniture item may detect minimal amounts of bodily
contact.
[0071] Turning next to FIG. 16, a rear-perspective view of an
adjustable bed 112 includes a metal, adjustable bed frame 114
coupled at a contact point 116 to a coaxial cable (coax) 118 and a
controller 120. As a portion of the adjustable bed 122 is in
motion, presence near the frame 114 of the adjustable bed 122 may
be detected by the controller 120, based on the capacitance
monitored via bed frame 114. Accordingly, the metal, adjustable bed
frame 114 is used as a sensor, with the metal being a conductive
material adapted to carry a charge. In embodiments, multiple metal
components 126 are coupled together to form the adjustable bed
frame 114. Many of these parts are coupled together at joints 124
that are also adapted to carry a charge, which enables the
controller 120 to detect presence with respect to contact with any
conductive portion of the adjustable bed frame 114. As will be
understood, embodiments discussed with reference to FIG. 16 may
also be implemented in additional moveable furniture items, such as
chairs.
[0072] In one embodiment, when a person contacts the adjustable bed
frame 114, the frame's normal capacitance is increased. In response
to the increase in capacitance by contact with the bed frame 114,
the controller 120 measures the change in capacitance of the bed
frame 114 against a known capacitance of the frame. In embodiments,
controller 120 may be mounted to the bed frame 114 directly, with a
separate microcontroller for a sensor, and a separate
microcontroller for controlling the bed motion. Accordingly, a
sensing microcontroller may use separate channels for wire
detection of presence (discussed above) and frame detection of
presence. In embodiments, the use of a coax 118 to directly connect
the bed frame 114 to the controller 120 reduces the amount of
interference caused during monitoring and/or detection, as the coax
exits the controller 120 and will not detect any signals until it
reaches the bed frame 114.
[0073] In one example, as connected to the bed frame 114 via coax
118, controller 120 measures capacitance by pulsing the bed frame
114 with a voltage, such as a low voltage having a minimal amount
of current. In between pulses from the controller 120, the signal
fed into the controller's analog to digital converter (ADC) is used
to measure how much the voltage changes over time. In one
embodiment, one microcontroller of the controller 120 may send out
a charge, with the resulting charge being read by another
microcontroller having a processor that monitors how quickly the
detected charge decays. In one embodiment, when a body is in
contact with the frame, the controller 120 monitors how quickly the
change in capacitance rises, and how far the change in capacitance
rises.
[0074] Based on detection of a change in capacitance by the
controller 120, the actuator of the adjustable bed frame 114 may be
disabled during a motion operation if it is determined that human
contact is detected. In embodiments, the controller 120 may monitor
the overall levels of capacitance of the bed frame 114 to determine
what changes in capacitance do and do not satisfy a threshold for
determining that contact has been made. For example, the rate of
change and the amount of change may be monitored to determine
whether a threshold for contact has been met, and whether the
travel of the bed frame 114 should be altered. In embodiments, when
triggered by a controller 120, the actuators of an adjustable bed
112 may be programmed to stop all motion (such as downward motion)
when contact is detected by the conductive, metal bed frame 114. In
such an example, when presence of a human is detected underneath a
moving, adjustable bed 112, the detection by bed frame 114 may
indicate to the controller 120 to discontinue travel of the bed
frame 114. In another embodiment, in response to detection of a
human underneath a moving, adjustable bed 114, the actuators may
reverse and/or retract motion by a particular distance, such as
backing up an inch if the bed frame 114 was lowering to a downward
position when presence was detected.
[0075] Accordingly, to re-start travel once a condition has been
met for stopping travel by the controller 120, a user may indicate
to the adjustable bed 112 that 1) the condition that triggered the
indication of presence has gone away, and/or 2) that the user has
again selected motion of the adjustable bed frame 114 by providing
an indication to the controller 120 (such as pushing a button on a
controller of the adjustable bed 112). In further embodiments,
controller 120 may track the usage of an adjustable bed 112, and
the subsequent commands received after detecting presence near a
moving bed frame 114. Such tracking may be used to designate
specific actions required by the bed in response to presence
detection, such as moving of a bed into a fully-upright position,
or discontinuing motion of the bed prior to initiating a subsequent
lowering once presence is no longer detected.
[0076] With reference to FIG. 17A, an exemplary metallic bushing
128, such as conductive bushing 130, may be used to provide an
acceptable transfer of energy within a metal assembly, such as the
metal, adjustable bed frame 114 of FIG. 16. For example, one or
more parts of an adjustable bed frame 114 may be coupled together
at joints 124 that use conductive bushing 130 to carry a charge,
thereby enabling a controller 120 to detect presence with respect
to contact with any conductive portion of the adjustable bed frame
114. Additional embodiments of metallic bushings 132 and 136 are
depicted in FIGS. 17B and 17C. FIG. 17B depicts an exemplary,
conductive encapsulating torque tube 134, while FIG. 17C depicts an
exemplary, conductive bushing 138 for use with capacitive detection
associated with a metallic assembly. Accordingly, in some
embodiments, conductive bushings are made using conductive
materials to create "conductive" plastics, such as using stainless
steel, carbon fibers, carbon black, carbon powder, graphite, and
the like. In another embodiment, conductive bushings are made using
chemical additives or coatings added to plastic bushings to
increase the conductivity. In further embodiments, a metal coating
on the outside of a bushing, or a metal coating encapsulated inside
a plastic bushing, may be used to generate conductive bushings. As
will be understood, a number of metallic, conductive, and/or
chemical additives, treatments or materials may be used to create
conductive bushings for use in a metallic assembly that carries a
charge and is used to detect capacitance, such as a metallic,
adjustable bed frame 114.
[0077] As will be understood, "traditional" bushings used in
adjustable beds or motion furniture are often made with
electrically-insulating acetals, which prevent the transfer of a
charge during detection of capacitance. Accordingly, in some
embodiments, parasitic capacitive coupling may be used to
capacitively couple components of the adjustable bed or motion
furniture metallic assemblies. In a further embodiment, jumper
wires are used to connect components of an adjustable bed that are
electrically isolated due to non-conductive bushings. For example,
electrically-isolated parts of a metal, adjustable bed frame may be
coupled to other conductive portions of the bed frame using jumper
wires.
[0078] In embodiments, bushings and other washer materials being
carbon-fiber filled acetal with moderate surface conductivity may
be used. Such bushings and washers may assist in the transfer of
energy throughout a metal, adjustable bed frame 114, its
components, and related assemblies. In some embodiments, a metallic
bed frame may be capacitively coupled to other assemblies in the
adjustable base. Accordingly, the term "metallic assembly" may be
used to refer to any of the frame, components of the frame, and
assemblies of an adjustable furniture item, such as a bed.
[0079] In one embodiment, acetal carbon-fiber filled bushings are
less than or equal to the surface resistivity of 1.0E+3 ohm and
have a volume resistivity of 1.0E+3 ohm centimeter (using test
methods per IEC 60093). The human body capacitance is the input to
the metallic assembly, and the carbon-fiber filled bushings act as
"jumper wires" to transmit energy between the metallic assemblies
in adjustable beds and motion furniture. In one embodiment,
electroceramics (ceramic materials specifically formulated for
electrical properties) may be tailored for use as a
highly-conductive bushing material, such as the electronically
conductive ceramic consisting of Indium Tin Oxide (ITO),
Lamthanum-doped strontium titanate (SLT), and yttrium-doped
strontium titanate (SYT).
[0080] Turning next to FIG. 18, an automated bedding system 140
includes an adjustable bed 26 having a plurality of panels 12 with
a first end 14 and a second end 16, a control enclosure 18 (mounted
below the plurality of panels 12), a first segment 20 of a
capacitive wire, and a second segment 22 of a capacitive wire. In
some embodiments, the first end 14 may be referred to as the "head"
of the bed, while the second end 16 may be referred to as the
"foot" of the bed. In FIG. 18, adjustable bed 26 is depicted in a
raised position with the first end 14 raised and the second end 16
raised, to reveal a portion of the metal, adjustable bed frame 114
of the adjustable bed 26. In embodiments, the bed frame 114 is a
conductive material used to carry a charge and monitor a change in
capacitance, as discussed above. Accordingly, in an example where
the first end 14 of the adjustable bed 26 is being lowered,
detection of human contact with the bed frame 114 may trigger the
bed to discontinue downward motion. In some embodiments, detection
of contact with bed frame 114 may also trigger a retracting and/or
raising of the first end 14. Similarly, in another embodiment, the
lowering of second end 16 may be stopped based on detection of
human presence by bed frame 114.
[0081] As can be seen in FIG. 18, capacitive wiring around a
perimeter of a platform may be used in addition or alternative to
the capacitive detection using bed frame 114. Accordingly, FIG. 19
depicts the adjustable bed of FIG. 18, with a majority of the
mattress 28 removed. As can be seen on the plurality of panels 12,
first and second segments 20 and 22 of capacitive wire detect
presence above the platform (e.g. on top of the mattress), while
the third segment 24 detects presence below the platform (e.g.
under the bed). An enlarged view of FIG. 19 is shown in FIG. 20,
with hidden lines depicting capacitive wires 20 and 24 coupled to
the control enclosure 18, which is mounted beneath the panels 12.
Further, the metal frame 114 is shown below the mattress 28, and
can be used to detect presence, in addition or in alternative to
the capacitive wire segments on the platform 12.
[0082] With reference to FIG. 21, an enlarged, perspective view of
the automated bed of FIG. 19, with head and feet portions of the
bed raised to partially reveal a metal, adjustable bed frame 114 is
shown. Additionally, in some embodiments, a conductive wire may be
incorporated into the top tape edge 34 around the top surface of
the mattress 28. In another example, a conductive wire may be
incorporated into the bottom tape edge 36 around the bottom surface
of the mattress 28. During manufacturing, a conductive wire may be
inserted into the tape edge automatically, as the tape edge is
applied to a mattress covering. In some embodiments, when routed
through the tape edge perimeter, the sensitivity of the conductive
wire may be adjusted in software associated with a processor used
to determine presence detection. Accordingly, in some embodiments,
presence may be detected with respect to an adjustable bed using
both wiring incorporated into the perimeter of the mattress, the
metal, adjustable bed frame 114 itself being used as a capacitive
sensor.
[0083] With reference to FIGS. 22-24, capacitive detection is
monitored over time, noting changes in capacitance due to presence
detection, noise interference, and movement of the automated bed.
For example, in FIG. 22, capacitance detection 148 is shown on a
display 150 that includes both head wire monitoring 152 and foot
wire monitoring 154. As shown along the path of the head wire
monitoring 152, head wire sense detection area 156 indicates a peak
158 of change in capacitance. Similarly, along the path of the foot
wire sense monitoring 154, foot wire sense detection area 160
indicates three peaks 162, 164, and 166, that indicate changes in
capacitance. Accordingly, in one embodiment, a capacitive wire near
a first end 14 (head) of an adjustable bed may detect a change
capacitance (such as peak 158) that triggers one or more features
of the adjustable bed. In another embodiment, a capacitive wire
near a second end 16 (foot) of an adjustable bed may detect a
change in capacitance (such as one or more of the peaks 162, 164
and 166) and be used to trigger one or more features of an
adjustable bed. In some embodiments, triggering a feature of an
adjustable bed requires satisfying a threshold for detection. In
other words, the monitoring system may detect changes in
capacitance in relation to the head or foot portions of the bed,
but the change in capacitance may not be great enough to satisfy a
threshold for detection that triggers a feature. For example,
minimal movement of a person on a mattress may indicate some level
of change in capacitance to the monitoring system, without
triggering any change in movement of the bed or activity of
associated features. Meanwhile, complete removal of user from a
bed, which alters the detected capacitance above a particular
threshold may indeed trigger the threshold for an associated
activity, such as lowering the foot of the bed and/or triggering
lights to come on.
[0084] Turning next to FIG. 23, capacitance detection 168 is shown
on a display 170 that includes monitoring of capacitance 172 of a
metal, adjustable bed frame. Detection area 174 designates the
indication of no presence being detected, and also provides an
indication of the inherent level of noise that is detected by the
system. Further, detection area 176 indicates peaks 178 and 180 of
changes in capacitance, which exhibit that human contact with the
bed frame has been detected. As discussed above, a threshold for
detection may be determined, such that a minimal amount of contact,
for a short period of time, may not trigger an indication of
presence with respect to the bed frame. At the same time, contact
with the bed frame for a longer period of time, as indicated by a
large change in capacitance for a longer duration, may be
associated with a determination of presence under and/or near the
bed frame. In embodiments, detection of human contact with the
frame, as indicated by peaks 178 and 180, may trigger a number of
features associated with the adjustable bed, such as stopping of a
lowering feature, alerting of an alarm feature, retracting of
motion in an upward direction for a specified distance, or any
combination of features programmed to activate in response to the
appropriate trigger.
[0085] With reference finally to FIG. 24, capacitance detection 182
is shown on display 184 to demonstrate the amount of change in
capacitance over time with respect to the frame of an adjustable
bed, such as the adjustable bed frame monitored in FIG. 23. Display
184 includes the monitoring of a head portion 186 and a foot
portion 188 of an adjustable bed. In embodiments, the rate of
change area 190 is monitored as the capacitance changes from a
first level of capacitance 192 to a second level of capacitance
194. Similarly, rate of change area 196 is monitored as the
capacitance changes from a first level of capacitance 198 to a
second level of capacitance 200. In embodiments, the rate of change
in capacitance impacts whether the change itself triggers any
feature of the automated bed. Accordingly, as indicated on the
display 184, the rate of change area 190 and the rate of change
area 196 indicate to a processor and/or controller that the rate of
change in capacitance is occurring over too long of a time (i.e.,
is too slow) to trigger any of the features of the adjustable bed
associated with lowering of the bed. For example, an algorithm that
requires a minimum amount of change in capacitance before stopping
lowering a bed (i.e. an algorithm that requires detection of the
presence of human contact) may not be triggered by the change in
capacitance caused by the movement of the bed itself, such as in
FIG. 24.
[0086] As will be understood, a variety of filtering techniques may
be used to adjust the determinations made (regarding whether
presence is or is not detected) using software associated with the
processor. For example, a variety of filters or transforms may be
applied to the monitored capacitance signal to adjust/adapt the
software for a particular application or user. For example, an
automated bedding system could be adapted to adjust lighting or
other functions based on particular amounts of change in
capacitance over particular amounts of time, or trigger particular
functions during particular times of day/night. As such, a
processor may be trained to alter the sensitivity of a threshold
based on previous use by a particular user of a corresponding
feature. Additionally, a reaction time may be changed and a
threshold may be adjusted for different users and different
features of the automated bed.
[0087] From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is
one well adapted to attain all the ends and objects hereinabove set
forth together with other advantages, which are obvious and which
are inherent to the structure.
[0088] It will be understood that certain features and
subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without
reference to other features and subcombinations. This is
contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims.
[0089] Since many possible embodiments may be made of the invention
without departing from the scope thereof, it is to be understood
that all matter herein set forth or shown in the accompanying
drawings is to be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting
sense.
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